The International Association of Blacks in Dance

The International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD) preserves and promotes dance by people of African ancestry or origin, and assists and increases opportunities for artists in advocacy, audience development, education, funding, networking, performance, philosophical dialogue, and touring.

Our vision is for dance, by people of African ancestry or origin, to be revered, respected, and preserved in the consciousness and cultural institutions of all people.

IABD values and validates the significant connections and influence that dance by people of African ancestry or origin have on the American and International cultural landscape. We believe in:

-The aesthetic and integrity of all forms, genres, methods and styles that have influenced, transformed, and advanced the art of dance and its history.

-Providing choreographers and companies an artistic outlet and opportunity to present their work.

-The discipline, experience, knowledge, and wisdom that impact youth and the next generation of dance artists.

-Creating an environment of exploration and scholarship for administrators, artists, educators, researchers, scholars, production staff, dance-related personnel and writers to learn and grow.

-Encouraging meaningful inter-generational exchange of these values between dance masters and emerging artists.

THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACKS IN DANCE (IABD) has become the Mecca for Blacks in Dance such as administrators, artists, choreographers, dance companies, dance-related personnel, directors, educators, scholars, students, teachers, and those interested in artistry, Black dance issues and performance presentations. The Association provides a network, formal newsletters, choreographers directory, published papers and is the raison d’être for the Annual Conference and Festival. The Association also responds to and initiates dialogue around issues that impact the Black Dance Community as well as the Dance community at large. IABD has developed national prominence and allowed the Black dance community to come together on issues important to them.

IABD offers a full range of services and programs that are dedicated to championing the work of dance artists, educators, leadership, researchers, scholars, students, and supporters. Our programs and services include:

1. Annual International Conference and Festival

2. Arts Administration Program

3. COHI | MOVE (Comprehensive Organizational Health Initiative, Managing Organizational Vitality and Endurance)

4. Emergency Preparedness: Performing Arts Readiness

5. EVOLVE, an IABD dance summit

6. IABD Auditions: Ballet, Multi-Company, Summer Intensive Scholarship

7. IABD Learning Magnet: Educational workshop and professional development

8. NextGeneration Leaders

9. on the 1, a dance class series

10. Equity Project: Increasing the Presence of Blacks in Ballet

11. Fiscal Sponsorship: sponsored dance projects

12. Scholarships: artist development and training

13. Open Space: digital episodic panel series

14. Membership: for students, individuals, dance companies, educational institutions, studios and industry affiliates

STUDENT VOLUNTEER PROGRAM INFORMATION - As part of our programming, IABD recruits local middle and high school student volunteers for the fall (September through December), Spring (January through May), and Summer terms (June through August). Volunteering takes place after school. 

Student volunteers assist behind the scenes with clerical and administrative tasks that support the various department’s of the Association (Archives, Communications, Development and Fundraising, Executive Affairs, Membership, Programs). Typical activities include organizing and preparing materials for programs, special events, clerical duties (photocopying, collating, mailing) and general assistance. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to learn more about The International Association of Blacks in Dance through conversations with staff and partnering organizations.

Candidates for the Student Volunteer Program must have a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. The schedule will vary weekly, based on the number of projects to be completed. The time commitment can range from four to eight hours per week, with a minimum of 20 hours completed per term. Service hours will be documented and may be submitted for school-based community service credits.